Cheesy Breadstick Bones are a fun and tasty twist on classic garlic breadsticks, with melted cheese and a crispy golden crust that’s hard to resist. These breadsticks are shaped like little bones, making them perfect for Halloween parties or just a playful snack anytime you want something cheesy and warm.
I love making these when friends come over because they’re easy to share and everyone loves the gooey cheese inside. What I find fun is shaping the dough into bone shapes before baking—it adds a little extra joy to snack time, especially for kids or anyone young at heart. Plus, the garlic and herbs inside give them a flavor that’s just right, not too strong but super comforting.
My favorite way to enjoy these breadstick bones is dipped in marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip. They’re great as a side for pasta or soup, too. Whenever I bake a batch, the house smells amazing, and I’m always happy to have some leftovers for a quick snack the next day. They’re a simple, cheesy treat that brings smiles every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza or breadstick dough: Using pre-made refrigerated dough saves time and makes shaping easy. If you prefer, homemade dough works great too. For gluten-free, look for gluten-free pizza dough in stores.
Mozzarella cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives that stretchy, gooey texture. You can swap part or all with provolone or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a nice sharpness and helps create a golden crust. Pecorino Romano is a good substitute if you like a bit more saltiness.
Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: These give a classic herb and garlic flavor. Fresh garlic or Italian herbs will also work but adjust amounts to taste.
Butter: Brushing the breadstick bones with melted butter keeps them moist and helps the toppings stick. You can use olive oil for a lighter option.
Marinara sauce: Perfect for dipping! You can swap it out for ranch, garlic butter, or any favorite sauce you like.
How Do You Shape Breadstick Bones to Keep Their Fun Form?
Shaping the dough into bone shapes is a fun part but needs a little care to prevent the cheese from leaking out or the dough losing shape.
- Roll the dough into strips about 1 to 1½ inches wide for easy handling.
- To shape bones, pinch both ends of each strip rounded to form “knobs.” Make the middle narrower by gently pressing or rolling.
- Place cheese in the center, then carefully fold dough over and pinch tightly to seal edges. This helps keep the cheese inside while baking.
- If dough stretches or tears, patch it with a bit of extra dough or press around the edges to seal fully.
- Keep enough space between each bone on the baking sheet so they don’t stick together as they rise and bake.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use a standard baking sheet to hold the bones, so they bake evenly and don’t stick.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- Rolling pin – helps roll out the dough smoothly, especially if you’re making multiple batches.
- Knife or pizza cutter – quick and easy for cutting the dough into strips and shaping bones.
- Basting brush – perfect for brushing melted butter on top before baking.
- Measuring spoons – to measure ingredients like garlic powder and Parmesan precisely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella for provolone or Monterey Jack for different meltiness or flavor profiles.
- Add cooked bacon bits or chopped cooked ham inside the dough for a meaty twist.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning on top for extra spice and flavor.
- Mix in chopped herbs like basil or oregano into the dough for a fresh herb flavor.
Cheesy Breadstick Bones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Breadstick Bones:
- 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough or breadstick dough
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and basil)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 12-15 minutes to bake. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have cheesy, fun-shaped breadstick bones ready to enjoy warm!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dough:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Shape the Bones:
Cut the dough into strips about 1 to 1 1/2 inches wide. Then shape each strip into a “bone” by pinching and rolling the dough to create rounded ends and a thinner center, giving it a bone-like shape.
3. Add Cheese and Seal:
Place about a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella along the center of each dough bone. Fold the dough over the cheese and carefully pinch the edges to seal it closed, reshaping the bone if needed to keep the shape and hold the cheese inside.
4. Season and Bake:
Place the stuffed breadstick bones on your baking sheet, spaced a little apart. Brush the tops with melted butter, then sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese evenly over them.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
5. Final Touches and Serving:
Right after baking, brush the bones with a little more melted butter, then sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy breadstick bones—they’re perfect for parties, snacks, or anytime you want a fun and tasty treat!
Can I Use Frozen Dough Instead of Refrigerated Dough?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the frozen dough completely in the refrigerator overnight before using. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out for easier shaping.
How Do I Store Leftover Breadstick Bones?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep the crust crispy.
Can I Add Other Cheeses or Fillings?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cheeses like provolone or cheddar for different flavors. You can also add cooked bacon bits or herbs inside before sealing for extra tasty variations.
What’s the Best Dipping Sauce for These?
Marinara sauce is classic and pairs perfectly, but ranch, garlic butter, or even a spicy marinara work great to complement the cheesy, garlicky flavors.
